Allston: better get your flannel on

By Jasmine Ferrell, Staff Writer

Who is a hipster? Among other things, someone who appreciates vinyl, are masters at discovering obscure bands and love flannel and cut-off shorts. Where do they thrive? Apparently Allston-Brighton, as Forbes just ranked the area 18th on its “Best Hipster Neighborhoods” list.

A glimpse of the racks at Urban Renewals located on Brighton Ave.JASMINE FERRELL/DAILY FREE PRESS STAFF

When attempting to find the local “hipster haunts” in Allston-Brighton, it doesn’t take much effort. There’s an abundance of cafes, ethnic restaurants, taverns and bars.

Let’s start off with a look at the retail end of hipster life. There is the always standard Goodwill for thrifty finds. Not to be over-shadowed though is the more localized Urban Renewals, a warehouse of a thrift store. The system is a bit different as it’s a smaller operation: cash only and no dressing rooms, but with all of the possible merchandise a hipster could build a wardrobe enviable by any other hip street walker.

A peek of the expansive stock at In Your Ear Records on Commonwealth Ave.JASMINE FERRELL/DAILY FREE PRESS STAFF

The small basement shop of In Your Ear Records has records, cassette tapes, movies, CDs and accessories in unimaginable numbers. I have absolutely no idea how the staff manages such a behemoth of an inventory, but hours could be spent in happy pursuit of that one great musical find.

Of course sometimes the old boom box or record player just isn’t enough, and you need a live concert. Countless bars double as music venues providing that intimate atmosphere. One bar to consider is Great Scott, known for its indie rock/alternative concerts besides its other popular weekly events.

Another vital part of the hipster life: food. Cafes are a must in hipster life, and just like bars, Allston is far from a shortage of these. Cafenation is a café and creperie with the expected coffee shop ambiance and any hipster would love their Nutella crepes. Feeling productive in the morning and want some breakfast food? Twin Donuts provides an ample supply of homemade breakfast goods at an incredible price.

This list could go on, because if there is one thing hipsters excel at, it’s finding the best secrets in any market. Whether you’re looking for a new vintage shop, an insult to the posh clubs of New York, or a solid spot to judge facial hair, sometimes it doesn’t hurt to follow the “in” (or is it “out”) crowd.